Gym Anxiety: What Is It, Tips And How To Get Over It

Gym anxiety is a real thing. It’s the feeling of nervousness or fear that comes when you think about working out, and for some people, it can be an obstacle that prevents them from leading a healthy lifestyle.

If you suffer from gym anxiety, you’re not alone. It is estimated that more than 20% of people have some degree of anxiety about working out at a gym. For some, it’s a mild case of nerves, and for others, it can be a debilitating condition that keeps them from setting foot in a gym.

Another reason people may suffer from gym anxiety is due to past experiences of feeling embarrassed or ridiculed while working out. Others may feel self-conscious about their bodies or worry that they will be judged on how they look when working out.

In this article, we discussed the main causes of gym anxiety, what can trigger it, and how to get over it. So, if you struggle to go to the gym or work out because of these factors, keep reading.

What Is Gym Anxiety?

Gym anxiety is the feeling of unease, apprehension, or fear that occurs when someone is faced with the prospect of exercising in a public setting. It is a type of social anxiety that can be triggered by the fear of being judged, compared, or evaluated by others.

Gym anxiety can lead to avoidance behaviours such as skipping workouts, not going to the gym, or working out only in private. It can also impact someone’s ability to stick to an exercise routine and reach their fitness goals.

If you’re struggling with gym anxiety, know that you’re not alone. Many people feel self-conscious about their bodies and abilities when working out around others. The key is to find ways to manage your anxiety so it doesn’t get in the way of your fitness goals.

 

What Triggers Gym Anxiety?

Several different things can trigger gym anxiety. For some people, it may be the thought of working out in front of other people. For others, it may be the fear of not being able to keep up with the pace or intensity of the workout. And for others still, it may simply be the dread of going to the gym in the first place!

Other causes can include:

– Changing gyms
– If you are a beginner
– If you have trouble using the equipment
– Having to change clothes in front of others
– The gym is crowded with people
– Self-conscious about your body

Whatever the case may be, if you suffer from gym anxiety, there are a few things you can do to help ease your fears and make your experience at the gym a more positive one.

– Talk to a friend or family member about your anxiety. This can help you feel more supported and less alone in your struggle.

– Find a workout buddy. Having someone to go to the gym with can help you feel more comfortable and motivated.

– Try working out at home instead of at the gym. This can help you ease into exercising without the added pressure of being in a public place.

– Seek professional help if your anxiety is severe. A therapist could help you to understand and manage your anxiety.

Getting over your anxiety will take time. However, the best form of attack is to continue going to the gym. Over time you will start to feel more comfortable in the environment.

 

How To Get Over Gym Anxiety?

If you’re someone who gets anxious at the thought of going to the gym, you’re not alone. Gym anxiety is a real thing, and it can be tough to overcome. But don’t worry, there are things you can do to make it easier.

Here are 7 tips on how to get over gym anxiety:

1. Find a gym that’s right for you
There are all sorts of gyms out there, so take some time to find one that feels comfortable for you. If the thought of a crowded, loud gym gives you anxiety, look for a smaller, more intimate setting. And if you’re worried about not knowing what to do or looking silly, find a gym with classes or personal trainers who can help you get started.

2. Dress the part
Part of feeling comfortable at the gym is looking the part. Wear clothes that you feel good in and that are appropriate for the type of exercise you’ll be doing. Avoid wearing anything too revealing or tight-fitting if you feel self-conscious about your body. And don’t forget to pack your gym bag with everything you need, including a towel, water bottle, and other essentials.

3. Set realistic goals
Before you even step foot in the gym, it’s important to have realistic expectations. If your goal is to lose 100 pounds in a month, chances are you’re going to be disappointed (and extremely sore). Start small and build up gradually. Set realistic goals that you can achieve, such as working out three times a week for 30 minutes.

4. Hire a personal trainer
A personal trainer can be a great way to help you get over anxiety. They can motivate you to go to the gym, help you learn exercises and how to use the weight machine, and offer support along the way.

5. Take it at your own pace
There’s no need to push yourself harder than you’re comfortable with. If you’re new to exercise, start slow and gradually increase the intensity as you get more comfortable. And don’t compare yourself to others. Everyone is at different fitness levels, so focus on your progress and don’t worry about what anyone else is doing.

6. Find a workout buddy
Working out with a friend can help you stay motivated and accountable. But more importantly, it can make the whole experience more fun. Choose a friend who has similar fitness goals and schedule regular workouts together. This way, you’ll have someone to chat with and help you stay on track.

7. Reward yourself
After a successful workout, pat yourself on the back (literally). And don’t forget to treat yourself to something special, whether it’s a new workout outfit or a healthy snack. The better you feel about your accomplishments, the more likely you will stick with your fitness goals.

8. Take deep breaths
If you start to feel anxiety coming on, stop for a minute and focus on your breathing, then start to focus on a positive mindset.